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Approved Automotive Services take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 

Conveniently located in Newton, the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. 

Approved Automotive Services have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.

When South Australian temperatures climb, a reliable car air-conditioning system is more than a comfort feature. It helps keep the cabin pleasant during summer commutes, country drives and long trips around the Adelaide Hills and beyond.

At Approved Automotive Services, an independently owned Repco Authorised Service centre in Newton, we inspect, diagnose and repair automotive air-conditioning systems to help keep you comfortable when the heat sets in. How Does Your Car’s Air Conditioning Work? Your vehicle’s A/C system circulates refrigerant through components including the compressor, condenser, expansion device and evaporator. This process removes heat and moisture from the cabin air. If a component develops a fault or refrigerant escapes, cooling performance can suffer. Common Symptoms of A/C Problems One clear warning sign is air from the vents that feels warmer than usual, even when the system is set to its coldest setting. Other symptoms may include: Weak airflow or inconsistent cooling. Unusual noises when the A/C is switched on. A musty smell from the vents. Windows taking longer to demist. These symptoms can indicate low refrigerant caused by a leak, a faulty compressor, restricted airflow, a blocked cabin filter or an electrical problem. A musty smell may also point to moisture or microbial growth around the evaporator. What Should You Do? If your A/C is struggling, a professional inspection can identify the cause before unnecessary parts are replaced. Importantly, Australian refrigerant handling requirements mean the system must be checked for leaks before it is regassed. Simply adding refrigerant without identifying and addressing a leak can waste money and allow refrigerant to escape into the atmosphere.

A proper service may include inspecting hoses and connections, checking system pressures, testing components and using suitable leak-detection methods. If a leak is found, repairs should be completed before the system is recharged with the correct refrigerant type and specified quantity. Some modern vehicles use different refrigerants and require specialised equipment and handling procedures.

A faulty A/C system can also affect demisting, cabin comfort and, depending on the vehicle, engine load or hybrid/EV thermal management. Not every cooling issue requires a regas, so diagnosis matters. Preventing A/C Trouble in South Australia Long periods of hot weather, dusty roads and frequent stop-start driving around Newton can place extra demands on your vehicle’s climate-control system. Have the cabin filter checked regularly, keep the condenser area clear of debris where safely accessible, and pay attention to changes in cooling performance. Using the A/C periodically throughout the year can also help keep the system in regular operation, provided it is functioning correctly. Unusual fact: Your car’s air conditioning can help remove moisture from the cabin air, which is why it can be useful for demisting windows even in cooler weather. Car Air Con Regassing and Failure FAQs Is it legal to regas a car’s A/C without checking for leaks first? No. The system must be checked for leaks before regassing under Australian refrigerant handling requirements. Any identified leak should be assessed and repaired before recharging. Does low refrigerant always mean there is a leak? Automotive A/C systems are designed as sealed systems, so low refrigerant can indicate a leak. A professional inspection can help establish the cause rather than simply topping it up. Can I keep driving if the A/C stops cooling? Usually, a loss of cooling alone does not prevent driving, but it can affect comfort and demisting. If you hear unusual mechanical noises or notice other vehicle problems, arrange an inspection promptly. Why does my A/C cool while driving but struggle in traffic? Possible causes include a condenser cooling-fan issue, restricted airflow through the condenser or a system performance fault. Testing is needed to identify the actual cause. Should my A/C be regassed every year? Not necessarily. There is no universal annual regas requirement for a correctly functioning system. If cooling declines, have the system checked to determine whether it needs repairs, servicing or a refrigerant recharge. Book a Car A/C Inspection in Newton Don’t wait for a hot day to discover your air conditioning isn’t doing its job. Contact Approved Automotive Services, your local Repco Authorised Service centre, for professional A/C inspection, leak diagnosis, repairs and regassing where required.

Need car air conditioning repairs or a regas in Newton, SA? Approved Automotive Services checks for leaks, diagnoses faults and restores cooling performance.

Hot Air? Your Car’s A/C Might Be Trying to Tell You Something

It's your car and it's your choice!  Approved Automotive Services is fully qualified to service your new car and maintain your log book schedule whilst the car is within the warranty period. Maintaining your car’s warranty shouldn’t mean limiting your options when it comes to servicing. At Approved Automotive Services in Newton, we understand that keeping your vehicle in top condition is important and so is the freedom to choose who you trust with its care. With expert knowledge, high-quality parts and a commitment to professional service, we provide a reliable option for servicing your new car without compromising its warranty.  As a car owner in Australia, you have the freedom to choose who services your vehicle without jeopardising your new car warranty. This assurance comes under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), which protects your rights and provides clarity for drivers. According to the ACL, you can have your car serviced by an independent mechanic, provided that the service meets the manufacturer’s specifications and uses quality parts. At Approved Automotive Services in Newton, we ensure all services are carried out to these standards, giving you confidence in both our work and your warranty’s validity. Get the facts about New Car Servicing and watch our AutoFacts Video These protections mean that you can benefit from personalised service, competitive pricing, and the expertise of your local independent workshop, all while maintaining your car’s warranty. At Approved Automotive Services, we take these responsibilities seriously and are proud to uphold the highest standards of service, ensuring your car stays in excellent condition for the road ahead. Why Choose Approved Automotive Services for New Car Servicing? Expertise you can trust - Our team undergoes continuous Auto-Tech training, ensuring we stay ahead with the latest techniques and technology to keep your car running smoothly. Dependable quality - We use high-standard parts that are built to last, giving you reliable performance and peace of mind every time you drive. Nationwide support - With warranty-backed service and a vast network of Repco Authorised Service locations, you’re covered wherever your journey takes you. Trust, Experience, Knowledge At Approved Automotive Services in Newton, we take pride in offering a level of service that is built on trust, experience, and knowledge. As a trusted Repco Authorised Service Centre, we bring together a team of highly skilled technicians who are dedicated to providing exceptional care for your vehicle.  Our experience in the automotive industry means you can rely on us to handle your car with the utmost professionalism and expertise. We understand that maintaining your vehicle is about more than just servicing – it’s about ensuring your safety and comfort on the road. That’s why we combine technical know-how with a genuine commitment to delivering quality workmanship every time you visit.  Whether it’s routine maintenance or log book servicing, our priority is to keep your car running smoothly while preserving its value and warranty. At Approved Automotive Services, we’re here to provide you with the confidence that your vehicle is in capable hands, allowing you to focus on the journey ahead. Book Your Service With A Local Ready to book your car service? Contact Approved Automotive Services in Newton today to schedule an appointment with our trusted team. Whether it’s maintaining your log book, ensuring your warranty remains intact, or simply keeping your vehicle in top condition, we’re here to help. Call us or visit our workshop to experience reliable, professional car servicing you can count on. Let us take care of your car, so you can enjoy the drive.

Expert car servicing in Newton. Maintain your warranty with high-quality, manufacturer-approved service from the trusted team at Approved Automotive Services. Book your service today!

New Car Service in Newton

Engines that operate through internal combustion rely on large amounts of clean air to ensure the fuel burns properly and generates the power needed to drive the vehicle. At Approved Automotive Services in Newton, we understand how vital it is to keep your car's air filter in good condition as part of protecting your engine's health. Your engine requires extremely clean air to function efficiently. Dirt, dust, and other particles entering the engine can cause serious damage. That’s where the air filter comes into play. It ensures the air entering the combustion chambers is clean, shielding key engine components such as the pistons and cylinders from wear and damage. Why Replace Your Air Filter? Save on Fuel Costs: Your engine requires the correct balance of fuel and air to run efficiently. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing your engine to run inefficiently – often referred to as ‘running rich.’ This not only puts additional stress on your engine but can also increase fuel consumption by up to 10%. No one likes spending more on petrol than necessary!   Protect Your Engine: Over time, air filters become clogged and weaker, increasing the risk of damage. A damaged or overly dirty air filter can allow harmful particles to enter the engine, potentially leading to expensive repairs.   Benefits of Replacing Your Air Filter: Extends the life of your engine Improves fuel efficiency Reduces vehicle emissions At Approved Automotive Services, we always check the condition of your air filter during every full car service. Whether it’s a major or minor service, or one that follows your manufacturer’s handbook or logbook guidelines, you can trust us to keep your engine running smoothly.

Keep your engine healthy with clean air filters. Improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and extend engine life. Visit Approved Automotive Services for expert maintenance and reliable car servicing.

Air Filters

Win a share of over $8,000 in prizes with Approved Automotive Services and Repco Authorised Service From 1 June to 30 September 2026, service your vehicle at Approved Automotive Services and you can enter the Love Your Car promotion and win from a pool of exciting prizes. Prizes to Be Won 5 x $1,000 Repco Authorised Service vouchers
Redeemable at any participating Repco Authorised Service centre nationwide. 20 x $100 fuel gift cards
Perfect for your next road trip or daily drive. 5 x Supercars merchandise packs
Valued at $100 each. 10 x car care gift packs

Total prize pool valued at up to $7990 including GST. How to Enter To participate: Book and complete a vehicle service at any Repco Authorised Service centre during the promotional period. Visit repcoservice.com/win Tell us in 25 words or less why you deserve to win a Love Your Car prize. Upload your receipt Submit your entry online before 11:59pm AEST on 30 September 2026.

From 1 June to 30 September 2026, service your vehicle at a Repco Authorised Service centre and YOU could win big in the Love Your Car promotion

Love Your Car & Win

Most modern diesel vehicles are incredibly reliable, but they do expect a little cooperation from their owners. One of the most misunderstood features is the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and, more importantly, DPF regeneration.

At Approved Automotive Services, we are regularly asked questions about DPF warning lights, limp mode and why a vehicle suddenly seems to lose power. The good news is that many DPF problems can be prevented simply by understanding how your vehicle works and following the instructions in your owner's manual.

Learning when and how to allow your vehicle to complete a DPF regeneration could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repairs. What Is a DPF? A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is fitted to most modern diesel vehicles to reduce harmful exhaust emissions.

Think of it as a filter that traps tiny soot particles before they leave the exhaust pipe. Over time, this soot builds up and the filter needs to clean itself through a process called regeneration.

Without regular regeneration, the filter eventually becomes blocked, affecting both vehicle performance and fuel economy. What Is DPF Regeneration? DPF regeneration is simply the process of burning the trapped soot into a fine ash.

Your vehicle's computer raises the exhaust temperature high enough to burn away the soot, allowing the filter to continue doing its job.

There are generally three types of regeneration:

Passive Regeneration

Occurs naturally during longer highway drives when the exhaust gets hot enough.

Active Regeneration

The vehicle automatically injects additional fuel to increase exhaust temperature and clean the filter while you're driving.

Forced Regeneration

If the filter becomes too blocked, normal regeneration won't work. The vehicle needs specialised diagnostic equipment to perform a controlled regeneration at a workshop like Approved Automotive Services.

In some severe cases, the DPF may need to be professionally removed and cleaned or even replaced. Why Does My DPF Keep Blocking Up? Many Australian diesel vehicles spend most of their lives doing exactly what blocks a DPF.

Examples include: Short trips around Newton School drop-offs Stop-start traffic Low-speed suburban driving Frequent engine idling These driving conditions often don't allow the exhaust to become hot enough for regeneration to complete.

Over time, soot continues building until warning lights appear. What Happens If You Ignore the Warning Light? Ignoring a DPF warning light is one of the most expensive mistakes a diesel owner can make.

A blocked DPF can cause: Reduced engine power Poor fuel economy Excessive fuel consumption Higher exhaust temperatures Increased engine stress Turbocharger problems Increased exhaust back pressure Vehicle entering Limp Mode Engine warning lights Expensive repairs if left too long Many vehicles automatically enter Limp Mode to protect the engine once the DPF reaches a critical level of blockage.

This limits engine power and speed, often making highway driving difficult or unsafe until the problem is repaired. A Real-Life Example of DPF Regeneration Karen often explains it like this.

Imagine you've been using your diesel ute for local shopping, school runs and driving to work all week.

One afternoon, the DPF warning light appears.

Your owner's manual may recommend something similar to this: Drive on an open road or freeway. Maintain a steady speed of around 80-100 km/h. Keep the engine above approximately 2,000 rpm. Continue driving for 20-30 minutes without stopping if it is safe to do so. During this drive, the vehicle performs an active regeneration, burning off the accumulated soot.

The warning light may switch off once regeneration is complete.

Every manufacturer is different, so it's important to follow the instructions in your own owner's manual rather than relying on advice for another vehicle.

If the warning light remains on, or additional engine warning lights appear, it's time to have the vehicle professionally inspected. Can I Keep Driving With a Blocked DPF? Sometimes.

If the first warning light has only just appeared, following the manufacturer's regeneration procedure may solve the problem.

However, if the vehicle has entered Limp Mode or multiple warning lights are displayed, continuing to drive could cause further damage.

Having the vehicle checked promptly can often prevent a much more expensive repair. What Else Can a Blocked DPF Affect? A blocked DPF doesn't only affect the filter itself.

Treating the problem early often prevents these components from being affected.

It can also place additional strain on: How Approved Automotive Services Can Help As an independently owned Repco Authorised Service centre, Approved Automotive Services has the specialised diagnostic equipment and training needed to accurately diagnose DPF issues.

Depending on the condition of your vehicle, we can: Diagnose DPF warning lights Check soot loading levels Perform manufacturer-approved forced regenerations where appropriate Inspect sensors affecting regeneration Identify the underlying cause of repeated DPF problems Advise if professional DPF cleaning or replacement is required Most importantly, we'll explain what's happening in plain English so you understand how to prevent the problem returning. Tips to Help Prevent DPF Problems Looking after your DPF doesn't have to be difficult.

A few simple habits can make a big difference. Read your owner's manual and understand your vehicle's regeneration procedure. Don't ignore DPF warning lights. Complete regeneration when your vehicle requests it. Include occasional longer highway drives where practical. Use the correct low-ash engine oil specified by the manufacturer. Keep up with scheduled servicing. Have engine warning lights investigated promptly. Don't repeatedly switch the engine off if regeneration is in progress. An Interesting DPF Fact During an active regeneration, exhaust temperatures can exceed 600°C—hot enough to burn away the trapped soot inside the filter. It's an impressive example of modern engineering quietly working in the background to keep your diesel running cleaner and more efficiently. DPF Regeneration FAQs Does every diesel vehicle have a DPF? Most modern diesel passenger vehicles, SUVs and light commercial vehicles do, although older diesel models may not. Can a failed sensor stop DPF regeneration? Yes. Faulty temperature, pressure or exhaust sensors can prevent the vehicle from completing regeneration even if the DPF itself isn't heavily blocked. Can towing actually help regenerate a DPF? Often, yes. Longer drives while towing can increase exhaust temperatures enough to assist regeneration, provided the vehicle is operating normally and the manufacturer's requirements are met. Does using premium diesel stop DPF problems? Premium diesel may help reduce deposits in some fuel systems, but it won't prevent soot build-up if the vehicle never completes regeneration. Will disconnecting the battery clear a DPF warning light? No. The vehicle's computer monitors soot loading and sensor data. Disconnecting the battery won't remove the soot trapped inside the DPF or fix the underlying issue. Don't Wait Until Your Diesel Goes Into Limp Mode If your diesel has a DPF warning light, reduced performance or has entered Limp Mode, don't ignore the signs.

The experienced team at Approved Automotive Services in Newton can diagnose the problem, explain what's happening in easy-to-understand language and recommend the most appropriate repair before a minor issue becomes a major expense.

Whether your vehicle needs a professional forced regeneration, a DPF clean or simply expert advice on how to complete regeneration correctly, you can rely on Approved Automotive Services—your trusted local Repco Authorised Service centre—to help keep your diesel performing at its best. Book Online Today

Don't Ignore That DPF Light! Your Diesel Is Trying to Tell You Something

Get ready to experience the thrill of the Supercars Gold Coast 500 - on us! Simply replace your car battery with a Repco battery at Repco Authorised Service and you could be heading to one of Australia’s most exciting motorsport events with your family. This is your chance to combine essential vehicle maintenance with an unforgettable holiday experience. What You Could Win One lucky winner will receive: Return flights for 2 adults and 2 children (if required) 3–4 nights accommodation 4 x General Admission Tickets to the Supercars Gold Coast 500 $500 spending money allowance Supercars merchandise pack Theme park tickets for 2 adults and 2 children Airport transfers (if required) From high-speed track action to theme park fun and beachside relaxation, this prize package delivers the ultimate family getaway. How to Enter Entering is easy: Have your car battery replaced with a Repco battery at Approved Automotive Services between 1 June and 31 July 2026. Then, complete your entry online here. That’s it! You’ll be in the draw to win an incredible Gold Coast Supercars experience. Why Wait? A new battery keeps your vehicle reliable and ready for the road — and now it could also put you on track for an unforgettable family holiday. Book your battery replacement today at your Approved Automotive Services and get your entry in before 31 July 2026. View full terms and conditions here. Don’t miss out - start your engines and enter today!

Enter for your chance to win a family trip to the Supercars Gold Coast 500! Replace your battery with Approved Automotive Services between 1 June and 31 July 2026 to go in the draw.

Approved Automotive Services

Cars are our passion.

Hot Air? Your Car’s A/C Might Be Trying to Tell You Something

New Car Service in Newton

Air Filters

Love Your Car & Win

Don't Ignore That DPF Light! Your Diesel Is Trying to Tell You Something

Win a Family Gold Coast Experience